By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

More than 125 children in the last 49 years — that's how many Mary Mellick has opened her home to in Hays through her child care.

"The kids are part of our lives. My husband and I, they're just like special grandkids and we're like grandparents to them at this point," Mellick said.

Mellick opened her child care so she could stay home with her four children, but it soon became a lifelong career. Although she faced challenges such as long hours and balancing her family life, she has continued to build lasting relationships.

"A good number of [former children] come by," she said. "They still treat me like family... I don't want that type of relationship and love between us to end."

In the early years, Mellick’s own children helped out at the child care, where she often cared for up to 10 children a day, clocking in from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Mellick usually cares for children from infancy through about the age of 9, with many later returning as parents and bringing their own children to the child care.

Mellick said she has no plans to retire, so she has scaled back to caring for about three children a day to continue doing what she loves.

"The biggest challenges are the everyday struggles of toddlers and their mood swings. Raising other people's kids isn't always easy," she said.

Mellick said the close connections she has formed with the children she has cared for have even led to invitations to their weddings and graduations.

At her child care, Mellick employs a play-based learning approach, focusing on activities that teach social skills and promote appropriate public behavior. She added that the toys are purchased out of her own pocket.

Mellick said she has seen many changes since starting her child care, including shifts in family dynamics, generational differences and new state regulations that she has had to adjust to.

"For many years, this profession was not respected as a profession or a career, so I'm glad to see that the mindset is changing," she said.

Mellick advises those entering the child care field not to give up too soon, even when the rules and challenges seem overwhelming.

"The rewards are bigger than a paycheck," she said.

Brandy Ridgway, a parent who brought her children to Mellick years ago, nominated her as September’s Child Care Champion.

"Mary continues to treat them as if they are the most valuable children in the world,"&nbsp;Ridgway said of her children. "She goes out of her way to engage with them, show them love, encourage their growth and challenge them to be their best.

Her care and influence extend far beyond the walls of child care, leaving a lasting impact on both the children and their families. Mary truly embodies what it means to be a Child Care Champion."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0f64ddb1-ba92-40fa-a22f-94a557aaf629">Nominate a Child Care Champion here.</a>

Child Care Champion scales back to continue her passion

Fort Hays State University senior Daniel Bechle, Aurora, Colo., was recently selected as a 2025-2026 Newman Civic Fellow through Campus Compact, a Boston non-profit organization devoted to the public purposes of higher education.

The Newman Civic Fellowship is a yearlong program that recognizes students who stand out for their leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in communities. Fellows are nominated by Campus Compact member presidents and chancellors, who are invited to select one exemplary community-committed student from their campus each year.

During his time at FHSU, Bechle has been extensively involved and has served in multiple leadership positions, including president of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee and the Student Research Cluster; vice president of Model United Nations and Grace Evangelism. He has also competed as a student-athlete on the cross country and track team.

He has worked on an NSF-funded community-driven victim services grant, participated in an internship experience with the Ellis County Attorney’s Office, volunteered for service, and conducted research on justice reform.

Bechle’s research into gender-based violence has led him to commit to addressing these issues through advocacy and legal reform. He studies how geography intersects with justice, and how overlooked populations, particularly small towns, often lack needed resources.

“I am driven to seek justice for those silenced by domestic violence and sexual assault. My research has fueled a passion to champion survivors, and it inspires me to dedicate my legal career to prosecuting serious sex crimes and giving a voice to those who have been unheard,” he said.

Bechle, who is double-majoring in criminal justice and political science, said he is concerned about the deep-rooted challenges surrounding relationship-based violence in rural communities.

“As a Newman Civic Fellow, I’m excited to connect with others who are passionate about justice and social change, and to grow into a more effective leader for the communities I hope to serve, both in law school and beyond.”

Learn more about the fellowship at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0VbNPUtN8RRW5-2F0LFdXTxmf5KsLxzBEXI5txX29F0-2Ff2lIWtHSxKRSwLS7vrW160LMkKgOc1PgJzWUy7A9pZUIqsmrLUQUybLVJ-2FGe6SPBjqhI5L_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfObBoI1x-2BoULCiqP0PVHKnLK8lBRuSEc0Dj8I02UGqBNn1XSIorbx20Jwe7sCBhJDhDDSuGVQeqx0viiuJpWJSXIbOX1awSjd3rXDrwJIcI3yK9NGDEcCnYWxax7RpL3aFdwjlWKKyTxMnKMueo4BCXKi76FWif10-2Fwm4Le-2FJ99WKb5Pr7i5DrB4yR0PnXBFn0h8WhW3Y9kSxnlpci-2BM86k8gjS8vFdIdtXFpiE7-2FISj90hGXVMSPF5CodsOUWz4i3">compact.org/newman-civic-fellowship</a>. You can read more about each of the student leaders selected for this year’s cohort at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0VbNPUtN8RRW5-2F0LFdXTxmf5KsLxzBEXI5txX29F0-2Ff2lIWtHSxKRSwLS7vrW160LMkKgOc1PgJzWUy7A9pZUIp7HhnBxiHJbHj9ra-2BPl2c47fXTj9gAMQolsAig9IqINw-3D-3Djkji_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfObBoI1x-2BoULCiqP0PVHKnLK8lBRuSEc0Dj8I02UGqBNn1XSIorbx20Jwe7sCBhJDhDDSuGVQeqx0viiuJpWJSXIdNhA1tMy5D7y4KDTiZ-2BUUYf1iqnI1MZFE5Q5SCidRGl17Q-2BIxCOw7ESBgXEs2lkW4OlKBgwLxC9pZ-2FcHXjjhjdvID19kK-2BznBfU0-2Bndr3XGEzvSGJzrGwND-2F3JhcrFuKOtIiJIyLeNguzPCtN-2FlOJriYqhI4e-2F-2FN9JZBDmLfIe">compact.org/newman-civic-fellowship/fellows</a>.

FHSU student named Newman Civic Fellow

The Bricks (Downtown Hays Development Corporation) is proud to announce the return of its signature fall event, the Farm to Fork dinner, on Tuesday, Oct. 21, at The Strand, 1102 Main Street, Hays.

Presented by Werth Wealth Management, the Farm to Fork Dinner is a one-of-a-kind culinary experience celebrating the bounty of northwest Kansas. 

Guests will enjoy a gourmet multi-course meal crafted by Executive Chef Austin Petz, featuring the freshest produce from the Downtown Hays Market and local growers.

“Farm to Fork has become a tradition that not only showcases the incredible talent of local chefs and farmers, but also highlights the community spirit that makes Downtown Hays so special,” said Lee Ann June, executive director at The Bricks in Downtown Hays. “It’s an evening of connection, celebration, and unforgettable flavors.”

• A thoughtfully curated menu designed to highlight local produce and ingredients. • Elegant dining inside one of Downtown Hays’ most iconic venues, The Strand. • A chance to connect with neighbors, friends, and supporters of Downtown Hays.

Tickets are limited to just 100 seats. Individual tickets are $75 each or $580 for a reserved table of 8. Proceeds support The Bricks’ mission to enhance and promote Downtown Hays through events, beautification, and historic preservation.

Tickets are on sale. Reserve your tickets at:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.downtownhays.com/farm-to-fork-dinner">https://www.downtownhays.com/farm-to-fork-dinner</a>&nbsp;or call/email The Bricks to reserve your seat today (785-621-4171 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:thebricks@downtownhays.com">thebricks@downtownhays.com</a>). Early reservations are strongly encouraged as the event traditionally sells out quickly.

Farm to Fork dinner returns Oct. 21 to celebrate local flavors and community

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

As people grow older, maintaining physical health becomes increasingly vital and not just for longevity, but for quality of life. One often-overlooked aspect of health in the aging population or even younger populations that are sedentary due to lifestyle or injury is balance. 

Experts are now emphasizing the importance of balance exercises as a key part of healthy aging, helping prevent falls, preserve independence and improve overall well-being.

According to the World Health Organization, falls are the second leading cause of accidental injury deaths worldwide. Among older adults, the risk is especially high. In the United States alone, one in four adults over age 65 falls each year, resulting in over three million emergency room visits.

Balance naturally declines with age due to changes in vision, muscle strength, joint flexibility, and even cognitive function. But the good news is balance can be trained, just like strength or endurance.

Maintaining good balance isn’t just about avoiding falls. It’s essential for everyday tasks like walking, bending, climbing stairs, or even reaching into a cabinet. When balance begins to deteriorate, so does confidence. Many older adults start to restrict their activities for fear of falling, which can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, muscle atrophy, and social isolation.

Loss of balance reduces mobility and independence, which then impacts mental health. 

Simple exercises such as standing on one leg, walking heel-to-toe, or practicing tai chi can dramatically improve stability over time. Physical therapists often recommend incorporating balance practice into daily routines. An example would be brushing your teeth while standing on one leg or putting on socks or shoes while standing on one leg.

This topic discussion would not be complete without touching on other factors such as nutrition, seeing your healthcare provider, and proper footwear.

 Eating healthy foods and including many nutrient rich foods in your diet can affect mental and physical health. Prioritize whole foods, foods with no food labels, or foods with only a few ingredients. A visit to your healthcare provider can manage changes in your eyes, medications, and balance assessments. Finally, wearing proper footwear can help with any foot conditions or prevent future problems.

Prevention can be the key to not just longevity but longevity with quality of life. Balance training is a small investment that pays enormous dividends to help preserve independence and dignity.

K-State is committed to the well-being of our communities by offering programs around nutrition and health topics. Some of our most popular programs include Stay Strong, Stay&nbsp;Health, Walk with Ease, Walk Kansas, and Med Instead of Meds. Contact our office for more information.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Why practicing balance is important

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

RUSSELL — The 16th annual Bricks, Broncs, &amp; BBQ will be held on Friday, October 3 and Saturday,&nbsp;October 4, in Downtown Russell.

Hosted by Russell Main Street, Inc., this two-day&nbsp;festival has become one of Russell’s most anticipated annual gatherings, celebrating our&nbsp;community’s businesses, food, music, and culture while drawing visitors from across the region. Each year, this event helps bring energy and economic activity to the heart of Russell, and 2025&nbsp;promises to be one of the biggest yet.

While Bricks, Broncs, &amp; BBQ is packed with fun, food, and entertainment, the heart of the event&nbsp;runs deeper. Russell Main Street, Inc. hosts the festival as part of its mission to revitalize&nbsp;downtown Russell and keep it thriving as the hub of our community.

Proceeds from the event go directly back into downtown projects, small business support,&nbsp;beautification efforts, and creating events that bring people to Main Street. 

As RMSI Director&nbsp;Kelsey Decker shared “Every bite of BBQ and every ticket purchased helps us build a stronger, more vibrant&nbsp;downtown. This is about celebrating Russell while investing in its future.”

Bricks, Broncs, &amp; BBQ and Brew Me would not be possible without the incredible support of&nbsp;local businesses and organizations:

Their support not only makes this festival possible but also ensures Russell’s downtown&nbsp;continues to thrive year after year.

Mark your calendars for October 3–4, 2025 and get ready for a weekend of mouthwatering BBQ,&nbsp;craft beer tastings, competitions, music, and fun for the whole family.

For tickets, contest signups, and full details, visit <a href="https://www.russellmainstreet.com/bricks-broncs-bbq">www.russellmainstreet.com/bricks-broncs-bbq</a>&nbsp;or call 785-483-2897.

Bricks, Broncs, &amp; BBQ—Where the smoke, the flavor, and the fun all come together in the&nbsp;heart of Russell.

KBI UPDATE: Hays police officer killed responding to domestic violence call

On Sept. 27 at 10:58 p.m., Hays Police Department responded to a domestic violence call in the 2200 block of Downing Street.

Upon arrival, the suspect fired at the responding officer. &nbsp;The suspect was pronounced dead on the scene. &nbsp;The officer was transported to a local hospital and succumbed to injuries sustained at the scene.

There are no additional suspects being sought in connection to this investigation.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation will be handling the investigation.

City of Hays officer killed in the line of duty

On Sept. 27 at 10:58 p.m., the Hays Police Department responded to a domestic violence call in the 2200 block of Downing Street.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Law enforcement, including the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, is investigating a crime that occurred north of the corner of 22nd and Downing in Hays this morning.

There is currently no threat to the public, according to officials.

More on this incident is expected to be released by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation or the Hays Police Department.&nbsp;

The Hays Post will update the public on this story as more information becomes available.

UPDATE: Law enforcement investigating incident near 22nd, Downing, no current threat to public

&nbsp;By <a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/noah-taborda">NOAH TABORDA</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2025-09-24/some-kansas-foster-kids-suffer-extreme-instability-as-state-still-fails-to-fix-longstanding-issues">Kansas News Service</a>

A new report reflects how Kansas is falling short of some its commitments to improve the state's foster system.

Kansas kids in foster care still face severe placement instability despite some marginal improvements to the state system.

An<a href="https://cssp.org/resource/mcintyre-v-howard-progress-of-kansas-department-of-children-and-families-2024/" target="_blank">&nbsp;audit by the Center for the Study of Social Policy</a>&nbsp;reviewed the state’s performance in helping children in the state’s custody over the last year. Advocates described the annual report from the independent evaluator reviewing the state and its foster care contractors as a “mixed bag.”

The Kansas Department for Children and Families has now met eight of 14 obligations laid out in a 2020 lawsuit settlement. But the state is coming up short or falling behind for the other commitments.

Leecia Welch, Deputy Legal Director for Children’s Rights, says the number of children struggling to find a permanent home in some parts of the state is still a major concern.

“The report should be a wake-up call for anyone who cares about the well-being of children in Kansas,” Welch said. “Each of these data points reflects a child whose life is in limbo — not knowing where she will sleep that night, missing school, and disconnected from family and friends.”

In 2020, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasappleseed.org/foster-care-lawsuit/" target="_blank">state settled a lawsuit with child welfare advocacy group Kansas Appleseed</a>&nbsp;over issues relating to instability for foster care children. The agreement included an annual evaluation and report by an independent party to check on the state’s promises to improve.

This year, the state agency met four additional obligations relating to placement stability, mental health and trauma screens, and capacity and crisis intervention teams. In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/Newsroom/Pages/Child-Welfare-Reform.aspx" target="_blank">a statement</a>, Secretary Laura Howard touted how the audit showed most kids were in stable placement in the 2024 calendar year.

“We remain committed to maintaining these results and pressing forward to fulfill the remaining commitments,” Howard said.

Still, advocates say the report shows there is more work to do to improve the foster care system, with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2024-09-17/kansas-failing-in-its-promise-to-fix-foster-care-system-new-audit-finds-let-down-at-every-turn" target="_blank">many issues from the previous audit</a>&nbsp;popping up again. While 92% of children in state custody are in stable placement, children without a permanent home continue to experience “extreme” instability.

In 2024, 341 kids bounced around temporary homes six or more times. These kids account for just 4% of children in custody, but experienced 50% of the total moves last year.

In addition, 100 children spent more than 300 nights without placement, compared to 57 kids and 83 nights the year prior. The study also showed that Black children were more likely to face instability.

Many regions of the state showed improvements in placement stability, but Teresa Woody, litigation director for Kansas Appleseed, pointed to worsening rates in Sedgwick County and western Kansas. Most of the Kansas kids who experienced placement instability were in those areas. She said short-term placements have more than doubled in those regions since 2021.

“It is especially concerning,” Woody said, “that many of the children in these regions who lack stable placements are children as young as 2 years old.”

That corresponds with an increasing need for foster care in Sedgwick County, which includes Wichita, over the past five years. One in four Kansas kids in the foster care system are from Sedgwick County, according to the state.

Placement instability is also feeding into unmet behavioral and mental health needs, Woody said. While Kansas met its obligation to provide initial mental health and trauma screens and expanded access to crisis intervention services, the study showed a little more than one-third of kids who need mental health services did not receive appropriate care.

Some Kansas foster kids suffer 'extreme' instability as state still fails to fix longstanding issues

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

Somewhere on my lengthy list of unanswered questions is the query that asks “Just how far will we go to protect ourselves from ourselves?” 

Don’t get me wrong, there are some very necessary warnings out there, like huge letters on a tank of gasoline that read “FLAMMABLE,” or flags that tell us “Road Work Ahead.” But for every good and reasonable warning are a dozen other absolutely wacky warnings that leave us shaking our heads.

The thing to remember about wacky warnings is that they got there because someone, somewhere actually did what the warnings tell you not to do. 

So, someone somewhere tried eating that deodorant stick before the warning “Do Not Ingest” was put there, and so on and so forth. I’m convinced the need for most wacky warnings come about as dares, and are preceded by those four infamous little words, “Hey guys, watch this.”

The outdoor industry is not immune to wacky warnings and offers plenty of products that bear them. 

The owner’s manual for a new gun I bought says “Appropriate use for this firearm means using your firearm for legal purposes.” So evidently criminals using guns to commit crimes haven’t read the owner’s manual first? “Always keep fingers and other body parts away from the muzzle” is another firearm warning. Try as I might, I’m not envisioning what events led to the need for that one. The manual for my crossbow tells me “Always THINK before you shoot.” Now why’d they have to go and open that can-a-worms?

And speaking of worms, I found that all fish bait, whether artificially made from who-knows-what, or catfish stink bait made from blood, liver and other organic stuff, contains the warning “Not for Human Consumption.” 

Now I may have had this fishin’ thing wrong all along. I’ve always thought the goal was to use the bait to catch fish to take home and eat, not to sit in the boat and eat the bait. Part of the fun of fishing for me has always been takin’ along a nice sack of snacks. I really can’ t picture myself taking a loaf of bread and making sandwiches by spreading slices of bread with stinky catfish bait. 

On one brand of catfish stink bait, I found the warning “Beware, dogs love this stuff.” Not sure I’d have put that on the jar if my goal was to sell that bait to fishermen to actually catch fish. And I’m not sure why I should “Beware” that my dog might love it. Should I “Beware” because all my expensive bait might disappear, and show up later that night as chunks all over the couch that now smell worse than the bait, or because the dog could grow fins and swim away down the river? 

One particular artificial bait made by the Berkley Company looks like crayfish packed in a pouch of liquid of some sort. It’s called “Gulp Alive” and the warning reads “Looks alive, Feels alive, Tastes alive; not for human consumption.” Now, to a good-ol’-boy out for a relaxing day on the water, that’s like dealing him all four aces and asking him not to play them!

On canisters of black powder used for muzzle loading guns I found this odd warning “Caution, do not eat, drink or smoke around this product.” Now, a warning against smoking anywhere near gun powder is one of those things that should never have to be said, but why not eat or drink around black powder?

 I have to remind myself again that these warnings usually come about because of some actual event. Maybe someone somewhere was once enjoying a sandwich while loading their muzzleloader,&nbsp;unknowingly ingested some black powder from the air along with the sandwich, and the next morning while completing their morning constitutional, blew the outhouse into the next county.

Perhaps the product I was most surprised to find warnings on were the little hand, foot and toe warmers that you stick inside your gloves or boots. The warning read “Caution, for external use only. Do not allow contents to contact eyes or mouth.” 

OK, not quite sure what to say about the “external use only” part of the warning, but I must say how disappointed I am that I can’t eat hand warmers! Yes, there have been a few times while sitting in a deer blind when I’ve neglected to pack a snack and wished I had just a little something to nibble on, but I can honestly say I’ve never considered chomping on my hand or foot warmers. As for the rest of the warning, I can’t remember the last time my mouth or eyes got cold and I considered putting a hand or foot warmer on them.

My warning to you readers is that reading this column will either make you pee your pants with laughter or put you to sleep, hopefully not both at the same time. 

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Wacky warnings

Attention student-athletes: On Monday, September 29, the Sports Injury Walk-In Clinic will be held from 2:00–3:00 p.m. instead of its regular morning time.

During the school year, this clinic is available every Monday from 8:00–9:00 a.m. to evaluate acute/new injuries, no appointment needed. Dr. Wally Walstrom and the HaysMed Sports Medicine and Orthopedic team are here to help you get back in the game.

Student-athletes are encouraged to take advantage of this convenient opportunity for injury evaluation. Simply walk in to the HaysMed Orthopedic Institute, located in the Bickle/Eagle Health Complex at 2500 Canterbury Drive, Suite 112 in Hays. No appointment is necessary.

Schedule change for Sports Injury Walk-In Clinic on Monday

Kansas Department of Transportation

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is inviting citizens to share ideas and discuss regional transportation needs concerning highways, public transit, pedestrians and more at Local Consult meetings taking place across the state in October.

“We want to hear directly from Kansans about what transportation improvements are important to them,” said Secretary Calvin Reed. “Those attending the Local Consult meetings will be providing input on what projects KDOT should prioritize for future infrastructure improvements.”

Attendees will also learn more about transportation investments being made in their area as well as about various grant funding programs available through KDOT.

Eight regional and metro meetings&nbsp;are set to help citizens be able to attend. The public is invited to participate in one or more meetings including:

COLBY - 9 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Oct 15: City Limits Convention Center, 2227 S. Range Ave. (northwest Kansas, District 3).

SALINA - 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Oct. 23:&nbsp;Tony's Pizza Events Center, 800 The Midway (north central Kansas, District 2).

STATEWIDE VIRTUAL MEETING - 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday Oct. 28:&nbsp;Please register in advance – visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Flocal-consult-2025%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010199773ec5c2-87a2cc36-214d-4785-8bb3-381100f212d3-000000/Ux5QwiRQM_ECmnygVz5MCEiukAWBXV03QpAv8du2eaI=423">https://www.ksdot.gov/local-consult-2025</a>&nbsp;to attend the virtual meeting.

KDOT is encouraging all Kansans to complete a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkdot.sjc1.qualtrics.com%2Fjfe%2Fform%2FSV_81fxrTHDCI0qxX8%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010199773ec5c2-87a2cc36-214d-4785-8bb3-381100f212d3-000000/EvD1y2LapyjI2LB2Jd2rxmyFPWz-mr_L_m4V6eiWFwg=423">short online survey</a>&nbsp;to provide their input on the state's transportation system before attending the meetings.

Local Consult meetings occur every two years to provide Kansans opportunities to ask questions and speak with local, state and federal officials about transportation needs across the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Local Consult meeting in Colby to focus on regional transportation priorities in Kansas

DORRANCE — It's Bazaar time again at St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Dorrance.

The Bazaar will be held Sunday, Oct. 12, at the Wilson Catholic Parish Hall in Wilson.

A complete turkey dinner including homemade pie and drinks will be served from 5 to 7 p.m. Games and the cake wheel start at 5:30 p.m. Bingo with a variety of great prizes will start at 7 p.m.

 St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Dorrance celebrates its bazaar on Oct. 12

Rehearsals are now underway for the Hays High School fall play, “Peter Pan – Journey To Neverland.”

Scheduled to take place at 7 p.m. on Nov. 13-15 and at 2 p.m. on Nov. 16, it will be the first theatrical production in the new Performing Arts Center (PAC) at HHS. Ticket information will be announced at a later date.

According to director Bill Gasper, the play is an original non-musical adaptation of the 1911 novel by J.M. Barrie, which is an expanded version of his 1904 play. Gasper said both the novel and play are in the public domain, which has led to numerous non-musical and musical adaptations.

“Many people mistakenly believe that Peter Pan is a musical, but that’s not the case,” Gasper said. “The first musical adaptation was the 1950 Broadway production with music and lyrics by Leonard Bernstein. In fact, it wasn’t even a full-scale musical. A later 1954 musical adaptation became the version most people recognize. Disney also released an animated musical version in 1953.”

Gasper said the HHS version maintains the charm of the original, which follows the adventure of Peter Pan and his friends, including Wendy Darling, her brothers, the Lost Boys, and the pirate Captain Hook, in the magical land of Neverland. The story explores themes of childhood, imagination, and the transition from childhood to adulthood.

“Although we’re not equipped to actually ‘fly’ actors, our version features plenty of action with humorous moments throughout,” Gasper said. “It truly is a fun performance for the entire family.”

Auditions for the play took place on Sept. 9 and 10, with rehearsals getting underway on Sept. 16. It features a cast of 24 with additional students serving as members of the crew.

“The first week of rehearsals went very well,” Gasper said. “I’m very pleased with the overall talent of the cast and crew, and the new Performing Arts Center is simply a great facility. The transition to working in a new space comes with certain challenges, but I’m excited to be part of its first theatrical production.”

From the public domain works of J.M. Barrie

Hays High School to present ‘Peter Pan–Journey To Neverland’ in new Performing Arts Center in November

&nbsp;Submit events to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>. Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Special thanks to <a href="https://www.visithays.com/183/Events">The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> and<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/"> Fort Hays State University</a> for their contributions to the community calendar.

Community Calendar

Jana’s Campaign, an organization dedicated to preventing relationship-based violence, will have its annual fundraising gala, “Empty Place at the Table,” at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Rose Garden Banquet Hall, 2350 E. Eighth St., Hays.&nbsp;

Tickets are $50 per person and may be purchased at <a href="https://www.janascampaign.org/">janascampaign.org</a>.

“This cherished community event brings together friends and supporters to honor the life and legacy of Jana Mackey while celebrating 16 years of prevention education and impact,” Kaiti Blackburn, Jana’s Campaign executive director, said in a news release.

“The evening will reflect on the organization’s achievements in building safe, healthy communities and reaffirm their mission to prevent domestic violence, dating violence, sexual violence, and stalking through evidence-based education.”

Jana’s Campaign was founded in memory of Hays native Jana Mackey, a 25-year-old law student at the University of Kansas who lost her life to violence perpetrated by an ex-boyfriend in 2008.

The organization has presented educational programs to more than 102,000 middle school and high school students from 677 schools across 10 states, Blackburn said, all with the goal of informing young people about domestic and dating violence, sexual violence, and stalking.

“Our prevention approach creates ripple effects that extend far beyond individual students. When we teach one young person about healthy relationships, they carry that knowledge to their families, friend groups, and future relationships,” Blackburn said. “Prevention education is an investment that pays dividends for decades.”

This year’s fundraiser will feature a cocktail hour, dinner, live entertainment, and both silent and live auctions. The event is being sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas.

Tickets on sale for Jana's Campaign 'Empty Place at the Table' on Oct. 11

HOLYROOD — The Heritage Matinee event will kick off at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4 at the Holyrood American Legion with archival film footage collected by Arlen Schultz dating from the 1940s depicting scenes such as a football game between Lorraine and Holyrood, and the dedication of the Ellsworth County Courthouse and celebratory parade.

An open mic storytelling time will follow for people to share their recollections about Holyrood and Ellsworth County. Attendees are encouraged to consider sharing a prepared historical anecdote between 1-2 minutes, which will be recorded for Holyrood’s archives. 'Sod and Stubble' Director Ken Spurgeon will introduce his film and entertain audience questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

'Sod and Stubble' tells the story of the Ise family who homesteaded in Osborne County, Kansas in the 1870s and battled through the many challenges of homesteading on the Kansas plains. The original story was written by John Ise in the 1930s with the help and remembrances of his mother Rosa Ise. In the 1990s, Von Rothenberger added over 150pages of additional text to the new release. Now, the story of Henry and Rosie Ise comes to life on the screen through the work of an award-winning cast and crew.&nbsp;&nbsp;

'Sod and Stubble' was filmed in Downs, Wichita, and El Dorado, Kansas.&nbsp;

The film was produced by New Albany Films and Sod and Stubble LLC, and distributed by Purdie Distribution. 'Sod and Stubble' has been distributed nationwide to theatres and released on streaming platforms.&nbsp; More information about the film is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.sodandstubble.com/">www.sodandstubble.com</a>.&nbsp;

'Sod and Stubble' film featured at Holyrood Booster Club fundraising event Oct. 4

NESS CITY — The 16th annual Fall Festival Auction for Sacred Heart School in Ness City is Saturday, Oct. 4.

Mass is at 4 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. with a prime rib supper from 6 to 7 p.m. Silent auction at 6 p.m. followed by the live auction at 7 p.m.

Drawings include a 2025 CF Moto UTV, a Generac generator, chances to win cash and other prizes.

Reserve your seat today by calling Sacred Heart School in Ness City at&nbsp;785-798-3530 and get your tickets at the school.&nbsp;

Ness City Sacred Heart School Fall Festival Auction is Oct. 4

Community Block Party celebrates latest Community Foundation of Ellis project

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A woman reported missing was found dead inside a vehicle Sunday at a south Wichita home. 

The victim has been identified as 43-year-old Rachel Johnson of Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

Just before 5:30p.m. Sept. 27, police received a report of a missing person under suspicious circumstances. Because of the nature of the case, homicide investigators were assigned later that evening.

Johnson was last seen by family members the morning of Sept. 26 around 9:30 a.m. driving a black 2014 Ford Fusion.

On Sept. 28, investigators were directed to a residence in the 1800 block of South Longford Circle. There, officers located the missing Ford Fusion and found Johnson deceased inside the vehicle. Officers then entered the home and located a 39-year-old man in the basement dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Preliminary findings indicate Johnson and the man had a prior domestic relationship.

The incident remains under investigation, according to Gupilan.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, call 911 immediately. If it’s not safe to call right away, reach out when you can to

Police: Missing Kan. woman's death investigated as homicide

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that occurred Saturday night in Wichita.

Officers responded to the&nbsp;400 block of South Vassar and found two male victims, ages 30 and 15, both suffering from gunshot wounds, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. EMS transported both to a local hospital where they remain in critical condition.

Investigators learned the 30-year-old homeowner went outside after seeing the 15-year-old rummaging through his vehicle. The 15-year-old then fired a weapon, striking the homeowner. The homeowner returned fire, hitting the 15-year-old.

This incident remains under active investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Wichita Police Department at 316-268-4407. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

Gunfight: Kan. homeowner caught boy rummaging in vehicle

NEW YORK (AP) — About 58 million pounds of corn dogs and other sausage-on-a-stick products are being&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/food-recalls">recalled</a>&nbsp;across the U.S. because pieces of wood may be embedded in the batter, with several consumers reporting injuries to date.

According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/hillshire-brands-company-recalls-corn-dog-and-sausage-a-stick-products-due-possible" target="_blank">Saturday notice</a>&nbsp;published by the Agriculture Department’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, the recall covers select “State Fair Corn Dogs on a Stick” and “Jimmy Dean Pancakes &amp; Sausage on a Stick” products from Texas-based Hillshire Brands, which is a subsidiary of Tyson Foods.

The contamination problem was discovered after Hillshire received multiple consumer complaints, the service notes, five of which involved injuries. The company later determined that a “limited number” of these products included “extraneous pieces of wooden stick within the batter,” Tyson said in a corresponding announcement — adding that it opted to initiate a recall “out of an abundance of caution.”

The recalled corn dogs and sausage-on-a-stick goods were produced between March 17 and as recently Friday, per Saturday’s recall notices. Tyson, which is headquartered in Arkansas, says the issue was isolated to one facility located in Haltom City, Texas.

FSIS is worried that some of these recalled products may be in consumers’ refrigerators and freezers in households across the U.S. — as well as some schools and other institutions. In addition to being sold online and to retailers nationwide, the agency noted Saturday, these products were also sold to school districts and Defense Department facilities.

Consumers in possession of the now recalled “State Fair Corn Dogs on a Stick” and “Jimmy Dean Pancakes &amp; Sausage on a Stick” are urged to throw them away or return them to their place of purchase.

To determine which corn dogs and other sausage goods are subject to this recall, consumers should check the product’s name, use by dates and other identifying information published&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media_file/documents/recall-030-2025-product-list.pdf" target="_blank">online by the FSIS</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tysonfoods.com/news/news-releases/2025/9/select-corn-dogs-stick-and-pancakes-sausage-stick-voluntarily-recalled" target="_blank">Tyson</a>. The products being recalled should also have an establishment number of “EST-582” or “P-894” printed on the packaging.

It’s unclear if consumers who purchased these now-recalled products will be eligible for a refund. The Associated Press reached out to contacts for Hillshire Brands and Tyson for further information Sunday.

Foreign object contamination is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/food-recalls-objects-trader-joes-banquet-a7c2337b14b1cd539edbeaec7dc644d4">one of the top reasons</a>&nbsp;for food recalls in the U.S. Beyond plastic,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyson-foods-chicken-nuggets-recall-703756f3a03de3289c70ec09782208c9">metal fragments</a>, bits of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trader-joes-recall-soup-falafel-bugs-rocks-00e1847cf251562bad9eb95309981193">bugs</a>&nbsp;and more “extraneous” materials have prompted recalls by making their way into packaged goods.

58M pounds of corn dogs and sausage-on-a-stick products recalled

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.

Just after 11:15p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 5200 block of Winner Road in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported sound of shots, according to&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

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